The Manitoba Habitat Conservancy (MHC) is pleased to honor the late Neil McEachran of Treherne, MB for his generous donation to the corporation.

In 2016, the late Neil McEachran graciously gifted a quarter section of land to the MHC, an organization with a primary mandate to conserve, restore and enhance fish and wildlife habitat.

“We are grateful for the landowners that protect and enhance our natural landscape. Their legacy ensures future generations benefit from their thoughtfulness and forward-thinking; this is certainly the case with Mr. McEachran,” said Tim Sopuck, MHC Chief Executive Officer.

The McEachran land donation has allowed MHC to complete a restoration project on the property. The wetland restoration program is designed to plug a ditch with dirt, hold back water and restore wetlands that have been previously drained.

Wetlands are one of the most productive natural ecosystems that exist. A functioning wetland sequesters carbon, purifies water, prevents erosion and helps to slow down water flows. Surface water from the McEachran property flows into the Boyne River, ultimately making its way to Stephenfield Lake, where water quality is a consideration.

“With this project, we restored two wetlands that are quite significant in this landscape. Every acre of restored wetlands has a positive effect on wildlife by providing a home for native plants and animals, as well as improving the water quality for Stephenfield Lake,” said Curtis Hullick, MHC Field Manager.

The wetlands provide a stopping ground for ducks and other waterfowl to use before larger bodies of water open up in the spring. As well, elk, deer and a whole host of other wildlife in the area are able to take advantage of the resource that is now available to them.

MHC has also installed fencing and a water system on the property to establish a rotational grazing system. A local beef producer rents the land for pasture and rotates their cows through the property. MHC’s policy is to use agriculture practices to manage for wildlife habitat benefits, wherever possible.

For landowners who are interested in restoring wetlands on their property, the wetland restoration program offers compensation for participating in the program through MHC. For more information, please contact Curtis Hullick at chullick@mbhabitat.ca or your local MHC representative.